Nine Ladies Stone Circle
An ancient stone circle steeped in Bronze Age mystery and modern spiritual reverence, commanding the windswept moorlands of the Peak District.
An evocative Bronze Age stone circle perched on Stanton Moor in the Peak District, comprising ten standing stones arranged in a rough ring. Dating back approximately 4,000 years, the Nine Ladies is steeped in folklore and archaeological significance, with over 70 ancient burial mounds and four stone circles dotting the moorland. The site remains a focal point for modern pagan and Druid ceremonies, particularly during solstices, while offering visitors spectacular views across the Derbyshire landscape and easy access to a landscape rich in prehistoric heritage.
A brief summary to Nine Ladies Stone Circle
- Lees Rd, Matlock, Stanton in Peak, DE4 2LS, GB
- +443703331181
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during dawn or dusk for the most atmospheric experience, when light plays across the stones and the moor feels most evocative. Clear skies offer the best views across the Peak District landscape.
- Wear sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing; the moorland is exposed and weather can change rapidly. The terrain is generally easy but can be boggy in wet conditions.
- Explore the wider Stanton Moor to discover other Bronze Age monuments, including Doll Tor stone circle and numerous burial cairns. Allow extra time to appreciate the full archaeological landscape.
- Respect the site's spiritual significance; the Nine Ladies remains an active place of worship for modern Pagan and Druid communities, particularly during solstices and equinoxes.
- Visit the nearby Reform Tower (Earl Grey Tower) for panoramic views across the moor, though note it cannot be entered due to safety concerns.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Parking
Getting There
-
Car
From Bakewell town centre, drive south on the A6 for approximately 3 miles, then follow local roads toward Stanton in Peak. The Nine Ladies is accessed via Lees Road, with parking available at the Cork Stone car park on Stanton Moor. Journey time from Bakewell is approximately 15–20 minutes. The final approach involves a short walk across moorland; the terrain is generally accessible but can be muddy in wet weather.
-
Walking
From Birchover village, a well-established walking route ascends to Stanton Moor, taking approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on fitness and pace. The path climbs through moorland with moderate gradient; sturdy footwear is essential. This route offers scenic views and passes other archaeological sites on the moor. The terrain is open moorland with some boggy sections in wet conditions.
-
Public Transport
Bus services operate from Bakewell and Matlock to nearby villages; however, services are limited and infrequent. From the nearest bus stop in Stanton in Peak or Birchover, a walk of 1–2 kilometres across moorland is required to reach the Nine Ladies. Check local timetables in advance, as services may be seasonal or subject to variation. Total journey time from Bakewell is typically 1–1.5 hours including walking.
-
Cycling
Mountain bikes or hybrid bikes are suitable for accessing Stanton Moor via moorland tracks and bridleways. From Bakewell, allow approximately 30–40 minutes to reach the Nine Ladies via established routes. The terrain includes gravel tracks and moorland paths; some sections may be steep or muddy. Bikes can be left at the Cork Stone car park area.
Nine Ladies Stone Circle location weather suitability
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Nine Ladies Stone Circle
A Bronze Age Monument Shrouded in Legend
The Nine Ladies Stone Circle stands on the elevated moorland of Stanton Moor, near Bakewell in the Peak District, comprising ten standing stones arranged in a rough ring measuring approximately 11.5 by 10.5 metres. The circle was first formally recorded in 1782 by antiquarian Hayman Rooke, though its origins stretch back 3,000 to 4,000 years to the Bronze Age. Despite its name, the circle contains ten stones—nine forming the main ring and a tenth, known as the King Stone, positioned some 40 metres to the west-southwest. The tenth stone within the circle itself was discovered in 1977, having fallen and lain flat for centuries. The folklore surrounding the Nine Ladies has endured for generations. According to local legend, nine women were turned to stone as divine punishment for dancing on the Sabbath, while the King Stone represents the fiddler who played for them. This tale has become so embedded in the site's identity that it appears in Charles Dickens' The Pickwick Papers, referenced through graffiti carved on the King Stone itself, including the name 'Bill Stumps'.An Archaeological Landscape of Extraordinary Richness
Stanton Moor is designated as a Scheduled Ancient Monument due to its exceptional archaeological importance. The entire moorland contains more than 70 stone cairns and barrows, with excavations over the past century revealing that many served as burial places for Bronze Age communities. Beyond the Nine Ladies, the moor hosts at least three other stone circles, including Doll Tor, a smaller circle comprising six standing stones that has been extensively excavated and restored. The landscape represents what archaeologist Aubrey Burl described as 'a prehistoric necropolis of cairns, ring-cairns, standing stones and stone circles'—a testament to the moor's significance as a ceremonial and burial ground for ancient peoples. The stones themselves are set on the inner edge of a slight bank, and evidence suggests the circle may have contained a small cairn or 'cist' at its centre. Little definitive evidence exists regarding the circle's precise function, though archaeologists propose multiple possibilities: a place for ceremony or burial, a territorial marker, a symbolic link between earth and sky or the living and the dead, or a gathering place for seasonal events. Such monuments likely served evolving purposes throughout their long histories.Spiritual Significance Through the Ages
For many modern Pagans, Wiccans, Druids, and Heathens, the Nine Ladies holds profound spiritual significance. The site is regarded as sacred, with Stanton Moor itself viewed as a sacred landscape. Practitioners believe the stone circle serves as a place to engage with spirits, deities, and ancestors, with some considering it to lie on a ley line or spirit-track. The site draws particular attention during solstices, when visitors and practitioners gather to mark astronomical and spiritual turning points. This contemporary spiritual use echoes the likely ceremonial functions of the Bronze Age builders, creating a continuity of sacred practice spanning millennia.Landscape and Geology
Stanton Moor rises to between 297 and 298 metres above sea level, offering commanding views across the Peak District. The moor is a gritstone outcrop of geological interest, formed as a syncline and composed of Ashover gritstone. This elevated position, combined with its heathland character, creates a distinctive landscape that has attracted both ancient peoples and modern visitors. The moor's gritstone has historically been quarried, with old dormant quarries still visible across the terrain. The surrounding moorland provides a sense of isolation and timelessness, enhancing the Nine Ladies' atmospheric power.Historical Records and Modern Threats
The Nine Ladies has been documented since the late 18th century, when Hayman Rooke recorded its existence and mistakenly identified it as a 'Druid temple'—a common interpretation among antiquarians of that era. By the 1870s, protective stone walls had been erected around both the circle and the King Stone, though these fell into disrepair and were demolished in 1985. In recent decades, the site has faced environmental pressures, including noise from nearby quarrying operations and erosion caused by visitor footfall, particularly around the Nine Ladies itself. A significant threat emerged in 1999 when a quarrying company proposed reopening two abandoned quarries to extract 2.18 million tonnes of sandstone over 42 years—a proposal that sparked the Nine Ladies Anti-Quarry Campaign to protect this irreplaceable heritage site.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Peak District National Park Authority
6.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Baslow Edge
11.1 km
Experience stunning panoramas and serene walks at Baslow Edge in Peak District National Park, the perfect escape for nature lovers and photographers.
National Trust - Padley Gorge
15.5 km
Experience the natural beauty of Padley Gorge, a hidden gem in the Peak District with stunning landscapes, serene trails, and rich wildlife.
National Trust - Ilam Park
17.2 km
Discover Ilam Park, a stunning park and garden in the Peak District, offering breathtaking landscapes, beautiful walks, and rich history for an unforgettable experience.
Thor's Cave
17.3 km
Explore the stunning Thor's Cave in the Peak District National Park, a natural marvel perfect for hiking and adventure amidst breathtaking scenery.
Carl Wark
18.0 km
Explore Carl Wark, an ancient Iron Age hillfort on a rugged Peak District promontory with sweeping moorland views and rich prehistoric heritage.
Peak District National Park
18.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage of Peak District National Park, the UK's first national park, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet
20.0 km
Explore the rich industrial heritage of Sheffield at Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet, where history comes to life in a beautifully preserved setting.
Beauchief Abbey
20.2 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and historical significance of Beauchief Abbey, a gem in Sheffield's rich heritage.
Ecclesall Woods
20.6 km
Ecclesall Woods: A lush escape in Sheffield, perfect for outdoor adventures, serene walks, and connecting with nature amidst stunning landscapes.
Solomon’s Temple
21.1 km
A scenic Victorian folly atop Grin Low Hill offering breathtaking 360-degree views over Buxton and the Peak District.
National Trust - Hardwick Hall
21.3 km
Explore Hardwick Hall, an architectural masterpiece and historic landmark that showcases the grandeur of the Elizabethan era amidst stunning gardens.
Peveril Castle
21.5 km
Explore Peveril Castle, a stunning historical landmark in the Peak District, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into England's rich medieval heritage.
Peak Cavern
21.6 km
Discover the wonders of Peak Cavern in the heart of the Peak District, where nature's beauty meets fascinating geological history.
Poole's Cavern
21.8 km
Discover the enchanting underground world of Poole's Cavern, a geological marvel nestled in the heart of Buxton's scenic country park.
Unmissable attractions to see
Stanton Moor
0.8 km
Explore Stanton Moor’s ancient stone circles, wild moorland beauty, and timeless legends in the heart of Derbyshire’s Peak District.
The Hidden Druids Caves
1.9 km
Explore the enigmatic Hidden Druids Caves in Birchover, a captivating blend of natural beauty, ancient lore, and adventurous rock formations in the Peak District.
Rowtor Rocks
1.9 km
Discover the mysterious sandstone caves and world-class bouldering of Rowtor Rocks, perched above Birchover in the scenic Peak District.
Cratcliffe
2.4 km
Discover Cratcliffe’s ancient hermitage and breathtaking Peak District views, a serene blend of history and nature near Matlock.
Peak Village
2.7 km
Discover Peak Village, a charming shopping and dining retreat nestled in the scenic heart of the Peak District with nature, artisan shops, and year-round events.
Dotique Peak Village
2.7 km
Relaxed shopping, seasonal dining, and nature experiences in the scenic Peak District village of Rowsley.
National Trust - Winster Market House
3.0 km
Derbyshire's first National Trust property—a 16th-century market house preserving the legacy of a once-thriving mining town.
Haddon Hall
3.2 km
Britain's best-preserved medieval and Tudor house—a 900-year-old time capsule where history lives.
River Lathkill
4.4 km
Discover the crystal-clear River Lathkill flowing through a stunning limestone valley rich in wildlife, history, and scenic beauty near Bakewell.
The Old Original Bakewell Pudding Shop
5.9 km
Historic Bakewell venue famed for its original award-winning puddings, artisan bakery, and charming British restaurant.
Matlock Antiques & Collectables
5.9 km
Discover unique antiques and collectibles in a welcoming shop at the heart of Matlock, Derbyshire, open daily with easy parking nearby.
Bakewell Bridge
5.9 km
Explore Bakewell Bridge: A Historic Gem in the Heart of Derbyshire, Perfect for Scenic Strolls and Cultural Discoveries.
Quirky Antiques Collectables & Curios
6.0 km
Discover a charming collection of vintage antiques, curios, and collectibles in Matlock’s welcoming and quirky treasure trove.
Bakewell Old House Museum
6.1 km
Step back in time at Bakewell Old House Museum, a Tudor gem revealing centuries of local history through interactive exhibits and family-friendly trails.
Matlock Farm Park
6.1 km
Engage with friendly animals, enjoy vibrant play areas, and explore scenic Derbyshire countryside at Matlock Farm Park.
Essential places to dine
The Peacock at Rowsley
2.5 km
Historic riverside inn offering refined rooms, acclaimed dining, and exclusive fishing on Derbyshire’s scenic Haddon Estate.
The Orangery Restaurant
3.5 km
Refined British dining in a historic setting within Audley St Elphin’s Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil gardens near the Peak District.
The Manners, Bakewell
5.7 km
Traditional Robinsons pub in Bakewell serving excellent local ales and renowned pub food, with dog-friendly rooms and a spacious beer garden.
The Woodyard
5.8 km
Historic marble works turned vibrant restaurant with fresh homemade food and a scenic riverside beer garden in the heart of Bakewell.
Stones
5.9 km
Elegant modern British dining with Mediterranean flair beside Matlock’s scenic River Derwent, perfect for relaxed yet refined meals.
Restaurant Lovage by Lee Smith
6.0 km
Innovative modern English cuisine with Michelin-starred finesse in a cozy Bakewell setting, blending local heritage with contemporary elegance.
Piedaniel's
6.0 km
A charming family-run French restaurant in Bakewell offering refined cuisine, elegant ambiance, and impeccable service for memorable dining experiences.
The Seafood Cave & Grill
6.9 km
Discover premium Scottish seafood in a cozy cave-like setting, where warm hospitality and exquisite flavors meet in Matlock Bath.
The Devonshire Arms at Pilsley
7.6 km
A historic Peak District inn blending rustic charm, elegant rooms, and fresh local cuisine near Chatsworth Estate.
Riverside House Hotel
8.2 km
A 5-star riverside retreat blending historic charm with Michelin-starred dining in the heart of the Peak District.
The Prince of Wales Baslow
8.8 km
A sophisticated country pub in Baslow offering seasonal British cuisine, fine wines, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
Fischer's Baslow Hall
9.4 km
Elegant Edwardian manor with refined British dining, charming gardens, and luxurious accommodation in the heart of the Peak District.
White Lion
9.6 km
A charming Peak District gastropub offering hearty British fare, warm welcomes, and a cozy village atmosphere in Great Longstone.
The Crispin
9.7 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Great Longstone offering hearty British fare and local ales in the heart of the Peak District.
The Bulls Head
10.3 km
A beloved village pub in Monyash serving hearty British classics with generous portions in a warm, rustic setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Works
2.7 km
Affordable arts, crafts, books, and toys in the vibrant Peak Village outlet near Matlock.
Bella Figura
5.8 km
Matlock’s bespoke bridal and vintage boutique offering personalized wedding dresses and expert alterations with a vintage charm.
Perfect Gifts Bakewell
5.8 km
Discover unique local gifts and heartfelt treasures in the cozy charm of Perfect Gifts Bakewell, your go-to shop for thoughtful souvenirs.
Bon Voyage Bakewell
5.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Bon Voyage Bakewell, nestled in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
Mini Chic- clothing, gifts, and accessories for children and babies
5.9 km
Charming boutique offering stylish children’s clothing, gifts, and accessories in the heart of Bakewell’s historic town centre.
The Derbyshire Emporium
5.9 km
Local artisan gifts and homemade refreshments in the heart of Bakewell's charming town centre.
Edge of the World
5.9 km
Boutique clothing and accessories shop in Bakewell offering quality fashion with a welcoming atmosphere and expert service.
Punnydukes
5.9 km
Whimsical gift shop brimming with unique treasures across multiple enchanting floors.
The British Emporium
5.9 km
Discover a refined collection of authentic British-made gifts and homewares in the heart of Bakewell’s historic market town.
Ashgate Hospice Matlock Shop
6.0 km
Discover bargains with heart at Ashgate Hospice Matlock Shop, supporting vital palliative care across North Derbyshire.
The Original Factory Shop (Matlock)
6.0 km
Affordable shopping with big-brand discounts in the heart of Matlock, offering fashion, beauty, and homeware under one roof.
The Lost Cauldron
6.5 km
Where an antique cauldron sparked a magical dream, now a beloved destination for enchanted treasures.
The Old Apothecary Shop
6.9 km
Step into Victorian charm and natural wellness at The Old Apothecary Shop, Matlock Bath’s historic haven for handmade beauty and nostalgic gifts.
Equatorial Shop
6.9 km
Discover vibrant fair trade fashion and crafts at Equatorial Shop, Matlock’s hub for ethical, colorful, and culturally rich shopping.
Little Bow
8.0 km
Discover unique fashion accessories and gifts in the charming village setting of Little Bow Boutique, Cromford’s stylish hidden gem.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Flying Childers Inn
1.2 km
A cozy, dog-friendly country pub in Stanton in Peak offering fresh, mostly vegan fare and a warm, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the Peak District.
The Thorn Tree Inn
5.7 km
A traditional Matlock pub offering hearty homemade food, excellent ales, and stunning views over the Derbyshire Dales and Riber Castle.
The Tipsy Toad
5.7 km
A vibrant cocktail bar in Matlock with funky vibes, great drinks, and friendly staff, open late for memorable nights out.
Twenty Ten
5.9 km
A rustic and lively bar in Matlock, offering great drinks, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Wheatsheaf Pub and Pantry
5.9 km
Cozy Bakewell pub blending traditional charm with modern pantry dining, serving generous portions in a warm, dog- and child-friendly setting.
Castle
6.0 km
A classic Greene King pub in Bakewell serving hearty British fare in a warm, historic setting near the Peak District.
The Newsroom
6.0 km
A cozy micro pub in Matlock offering an excellent selection of local craft beers and a welcoming atmosphere for all beer lovers.
Monk Bar
6.0 km
Monk Bar Matlock: Stylish cocktails, vibrant nights, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Derbyshire.
The Jug And Glass
9.7 km
Historic 18th-century pub and inn in Lea, Matlock offering traditional British fare, real ales, cozy rooms, and a gateway to the Peak District.
The Packhorse Inn
10.1 km
A cozy, traditional Peak District pub with warm fires, local ales, scenic views, and welcoming rooms near Bakewell.
The Eyre Arms
11.4 km
A charming historic pub in Hope Valley offering hearty Derbyshire fare and warm hospitality in the heart of the Peak District.
Cliff Inn
12.8 km
Cozy traditional pub in Crich serving hearty Derbyshire classics with stunning countryside views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Black Swan Public House
13.7 km
A welcoming traditional pub in Crich serving hearty British fare and well-kept ales in a cozy, community-focused setting.
Red Lion Inn
14.5 km
A quintessential Peak District country pub offering hearty fare, real fires, and warm hospitality in the charming village of Litton.
The Bull at Foolow
14.5 km
Historic Peak District pub and boutique inn offering cozy rooms, hearty fare, and scenic countryside charm in the village of Foolow.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Loft
5.8 km
A vibrant, intimate nightclub in Matlock offering lively music, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere in the town center.
Waikiki Beach Bar
15.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
The Association Nightclub
19.8 km
Ripley's vibrant weekend nightclub offering late-night music, dancing, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
The Regal Nightclub
20.0 km
Experience Ripley’s vibrant nightlife at The Regal Nightclub, where lively music and a welcoming atmosphere keep the party going late into the weekend.
Great Rocks Social Club
20.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Great Rocks Social Club, a welcoming hub in Peak Dale perfect for socializing and entertainment.
Level 2
21.4 km
Buxton’s vibrant two-floor nightclub with diverse music, lively bars, and themed nights, perfect for an energetic night out.
Dempseys Bar and Club
25.1 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Temple Sheffield
25.3 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Corporation
25.4 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Code Sheffield
25.5 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
The Leadmill
25.6 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Popworld - Sheffield
25.8 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Viper Rooms
25.8 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
Fez Sheffield
25.8 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
25.8 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Adventurous
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Panoramas
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Pet Friendly
